HIGHLIGHTS

A Bengaluru student lost Rs 1.1 lakh while trying to purchase an iPhone online.

It all started when Riyan Hussain came across an ad posted by someone named Kiran, who claimed to be selling an iPhone 16 Pro Max.

Kiran sent Riyan pictures of the phone’s bill and the box over WhatsApp, assuring him of the product’s authenticity.

The convenience of online shopping often comes with a hidden danger, as a recent incident in Bengaluru highlights. A 24-year-old student, Riyan Hussain, fell victim to a scam that cost him a staggering Rs 1.1 lakh while attempting to buy an iPhone.

The saga began when Riyan, residing in RT Nagar, was perusing advertisements for second-hand mobile phones on OLX. His attention was caught by a posting from an individual named Kiran who purportedly was selling an iPhone 16 Pro Max. Captivated by the promise of a new gadget, Riyan promptly reached out to Kiran using the contact number mentioned in the ad.

In the ensuing conversation, Kiran provided Riyan with images of the phone’s original bill and its box via WhatsApp, adding a layer of credibility to his offer by assuring Riyan of the phone’s authenticity. Following a series of negotiations, they settled on a purchase price of Rs 1.1 lakh. Kiran then instructed Riyan to meet an intermediary referred to as Hussain near a hotel on Cunningham Road to finalize the transaction, as reported by TOI.

At the meetup location, Riyan encountered Hussain, who allegedly showcased the phone, along with the bill and the box. Feeling reassured by the presentation, Riyan proceeded to transfer the sum of Rs 1.1 lakh to Hussain’s designated bank account.

What transpired next was beyond Riyan’s worst expectations. Instead of handing over the promised iPhone, Hussain claimed he had not received any payment. Riyan attempted to clarify that the money had indeed been sent, but Hussain refused to acknowledge any transfer had occurred. Without delivering the phone, he abruptly left the scene on his motorbike. Frustrated and bewildered, Riyan subsequently filed a complaint with the local police, recounting the unfortunate encounter.

For further insights, you may also want to read: Bengaluru software engineer loses Rs 1.2cr in courier scam: Here’s what happened

How to avoid such scams

• Verify the seller: Always scrutinize the seller’s profile and their reviews on online platforms.
• Meet in public places: Opt for safe and well-lit locations for your transactions to minimize risk.
• Avoid large online transfers: Whenever possible, conduct transactions using cash or payment methods that offer buyer protection and refunds.
• Double-check before paying: Ensure that you receive the item before finalizing any payment; never rush this step.
• Stay alert: Exercise caution, especially when a deal appears unusually beneficial; often, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.

This incident is a stark reminder for online shoppers to be vigilant and cautious when engaging in online transactions. Scammers often employ sophisticated tactics to convince buyers and exploit their eagerness, leaving victims devastated. By following basic precautions and remaining skeptical of offers that appear excessively advantageous, potential buyers can protect themselves from falling prey to fraud.

In light of this recent scam, it is essential for potential buyers to familiarize themselves with safe online shopping practices. Remember to trust your instincts, and if something feels off about a transaction, it’s often best to walk away.